Spain restores universal access to public and free healthcare, including those in irregular situations
Spain has reinstated universal access to public healthcare, ensuring coverage for migrants regardless of their legal status.
The Spanish government is set to approve a royal decree that will remove bureaucratic barriers that previously excluded thousands of undocumented migrants from accessing public healthcare. This follows the historical context of Spain's healthcare policy, where Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez initially reinstated universal healthcare in 2018 after cuts made in 2012 by the Rajoy administration had left many without necessary medical assistance. The new decree is the result of proposals from the Ministries of Health and Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, aimed at ensuring that anyone residing in Spain, regardless of their immigration status, can access medical services. The implementation of this policy is expected to provide critical support to vulnerable populations and address the gaps that existed in the healthcare system, reflecting Spain's commitment to inclusivity and public health.